Overview of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. is a perennial herbaceous plant in the family Brassicaceae, commonly known as Madagascar watercress. It is native to Madagascar but is also found in tropical regions of Africa, Asia, and the Americas. This plant is often found in wet places like along streams and in swamps where it grows up to 1.5 m in height.
Appearance of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
The leaves of Nasturtium madagascariensis are dark green, lobed, and oval, growing to about 10 cm long. The plant has a round, succulent stem with small yellow flowers that bloom from December to May. The fruit is a narrow, cylindrical pod, which contains several seeds.
Common Names of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. is known by various common names such as Madagascan cress, watercress, and water-rocket. The plant's common name, watercress, stems from its similarity to the edible plant of the same name.
Uses of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
The leaves of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. are edible and are used in salads in some parts of the world, including Madagascar. This plant is also used medicinally in traditional medicine to treat various ailments like coughs, chest pains, and rheumatism. The plant is rich in antioxidants and contains essential oils that make it effective for treating different respiratory conditions.
Light Requirements
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. thrives in bright, indirect light but can also tolerate partial shade. Direct sunlight can be too intense and lead to leaf scorching, so it is best to provide some protection from midday sun in hotter climates.
Temperature Requirements
This plant prefers moderate temperatures between 60-75°F (15-24°C). It can tolerate occasional drops in temperature down to 50°F (10°C) but will not survive frost. In warmer climates, it is best to grow Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. in a shaded area to prevent heat stress.
Soil Requirements
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. requires well-draining soil rich in organic matter. It can grow in a range of soil types, including sandy or loamy soils. The soil pH should be slightly acidic to neutral, with a pH between 5.5-7.5. It is recommended to mix in compost or other organic matter to improve soil structure and fertility.
Cultivation of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. is a fascinating plant that is easy to grow, with its attractive foliage, and showy flowers, it is sure to add beauty to any garden or landscape.
To grow Nasturtium madagascariensis DC., you should start by planting it in well-draining soil. The plant requires a lot of sunlight, so it is best to plant it in a spot where it can receive full sun. It also prefers warm temperatures and does best in USDA hardiness zones 9-11.
You can propagate Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. from seeds or cuttings. If using seeds, sow them directly into the soil, making sure they are covered with a thin layer of soil. If using cuttings, you should plant them in a pot of well-draining soil and keep them in a warm, humid location until they begin to root.
Watering Needs for Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Watering Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. is crucial to its growth and survival. The plant requires moderate watering, and it is best to let the soil dry out slightly between waterings. Overwatering can lead to root rot, which can be fatal.
In general, Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. needs watering once a week. However, during the growing season, it may require watering more frequently, especially during hot, dry spells. Mulching around the plant can help to prevent moisture loss from the soil.
Fertilization of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Proper fertilization is crucial for the healthy growth of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. It is best to fertilize the plant once a month during the growing season using a balanced fertilizer. The fertilizer should be applied according to the manufacturer's instructions.
Alternatively, you can use organic fertilizers such as compost or manure. These fertilizers should be worked into the soil around the plant in early spring and late fall.
Pruning Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Pruning Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. is not necessary but can be done to maintain the plant's shape and size. The best time to prune the plant is in the early spring before it begins to grow again.
When pruning, you should remove any dead, damaged, or diseased stems. You can also cut back the plant to control its growth and shape. It is best to avoid pruning the plant during the blooming season as it can affect its ability to produce flowers.
Propagation of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. is commonly propagated by seeds, cuttings or division.
Propagation by Seeds
Seeds of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. can be sown directly in the soil or in trays. Seeds should be planted in the spring in well-drained, fertile soil about 1.5 cm deep and spaced 30-45 cm apart. The soil should be kept moist until the seedlings have emerged, after which the soil should be allowed to dry slightly between watering. Germination usually takes 7-14 days, and the seedlings can be transplanted to their permanent location when they are about 5 cm tall.
Propagation by Cuttings
Softwood cuttings of Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. can be taken in the spring or summer. The cuttings should be about 7.5 cm long and have several nodes. Remove the lower leaves and dip the cut end in rooting hormone powder. Plant the cutting in a well-drained, moist potting mix and cover with a plastic bag. Place the cutting in a bright, warm location out of direct sunlight. The cutting should root in 2-3 weeks and can be transplanted when it has developed a strong root system.
Propagation by Division
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. can also be propagated by division. Divide the plant in the spring by separating the roots and shoots and replanting them in their new location. Make sure each division has several shoots and a healthy root system. Water the divisions well and keep them in shade until they have established themselves in their new location.
Disease Management for Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. may be susceptible to various fungal and bacterial diseases, such as powdery mildew, leaf spot, and bacterial blight. Fungal diseases can be prevented by maintaining proper soil drainage and allowing for good air circulation. Additionally, avoiding overhead watering can decrease the likelihood of fungal spores attaching to the plant. For bacterial blight, using disease-free seeds and avoiding overhead watering may help reduce the chance of infection. Infected plants should be removed and destroyed to prevent the spread of disease.
Pest Management for Nasturtium madagascariensis DC.
Aphids and whiteflies are common pests that may attack Nasturtium madagascariensis DC. Applying insecticidal soap or neem oil can help control infestations. Ladybugs and lacewings can also be introduced to the garden as natural predators to control insect pests. Furthermore, removing weeds and plant debris around the plant can help reduce the likelihood of pest infestations.
